photo CC SA-BY Our OaklandRobert Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve is one of the East Bay Regional Park District's oldest parks. Located in the Oakland Hills just off Skyline Boulevard, Sibley was dedicated in 1936. The most prominent feature in Sibley Park is the Round Top volcano which rises 1,763 feet, and is made up of lava and volcanic debris left over from a 10-million-year-old volcano. During the past 10 million years, massive tectonic forces on the Hayward and Moraga earthquake faults uplifted the Berkeley hills, folding bedrock formations and tilting the Round Top volcano complex on its side. 2

Originally called Round Top Park, Sibley shares with Temescal and Tilden the distinction of being one of the East Bay Regional Park District's original parks. The preserve was later named in honor of Robert Sibley, who helped found the District and served for 10 years on its board of directors. 2

From different points in the park, it's possible to see Mount Diablo, Mount Tamalpais, the Golden Gate Bridge, and on a clear day, the Farallon Islands.

Historically a great deal of quarry operations were centered in this area, but today there are lovely walking trails that are runner, family and dog friendly. The park is also known for its mysterious labyrinths along the base of the quarry canyons. Brochures and maps can be obtained at the visitor's center which map out self-guided tours along the Round Top Loop Trail. 1

In the Park

Most trails are hiking and equestrian only. A few trails are multi-use. Dogs are permitted at Sibley, but are not allowed on adjacent Huckleberry trails. A visitor center at the park shelves self-guided tour brochures so guests can stroll the park and learn of its historic significance at their own leisure. 2

Bicycles are not allowed on narrow-gauge trails, except on the Skyline Trail between the Sibley visitor center and Old Tunnel Road. Bicycles are allowed on the wider-gauge fire trails and paved roads, but are not allowed on Round Top Road from the fork .15 mile east of the visitor center to the top of Round Top. 2